US Ready to act as ‘Bridge’ between Türkiye and Greece, says Ambassador Barrack
U.S. Ambassador to Türkiye Tom Barrack said Washington is prepared to help ease tensions between Türkiye and Greece, describing the disputes between the two NATO allies as “meaningless.”
In an interview with Kathimerini, Barrack suggested that historical disagreements “from hundreds or even thousands of years ago” should no longer justify ongoing strain. He said the U.S. is discussing with President Donald Trump how it could serve as “the mortar between two bricks” to encourage step-by-step cooperation.
“The time has come for new cooperation,” Barrack said, emphasizing that progress begins with dialogue and noting that closer ties could raise hopes across the region.
Barrack also highlighted the Eastern Mediterranean and the Cyprus issue as key areas for regional cooperation. “There cannot be an abscess at the center of a healthy body. The whole body must be treated. The Cyprus issue will also be resolved,” he said.
On religious matters, the ambassador discussed the potential reopening of the Halki (Heybeliada) Seminary, indicating that the school could reopen next September. He said discussions involving Patriarch Bartholomeos, President Trump, and President Erdogan aim to facilitate progress toward a possible reopening in 2026.
